Q

What causes road rage accidents?

You hear about the increase of road rage accidents and aggressive driving all the time on KPLC and Channel 6. It seems like every time you turn on the news there is another story about an accident caused by some sort of road rage incident. You see it first hand during rush hour.

But what exactly causes this specific anger which affects thousands of drivers every day?

Causes of Road Rage

Road rage is aggressive or angry behavior by a driver that can potentially endanger other motorists or pedestrians. Sometimes, it can simply be caused as a result of a person having a bad day, which then carries over to his driving. For others, it unfortunately results from common situations that cause uncontrollable frustration, anger, aggression, and violently erratic driving. The following are some common road rage triggers for many drivers:

Traffic congestion – Can be both time consuming and claustrophobic (causing you to try to defend your own personal space). Many times, the amount of rage from the other motorists surrounding you can be overpowering.

Bad weather – Can be both frustrating and scary to drive through. Heat and humidity can naturally raise your blood pressure and make it easier to reach your boiling point for aggressive behavior.

Time constraints – When you’re running late, anything that makes you even later will add to your frustration.

Dangerous, inconsiderate, and reckless driving of others not only puts you in immediate danger, but it can lead to road rage and a need for retaliation.

According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), road rage and associated aggressive driving behavior accounts for at least 56 percent of all fatal car accidents. Many times, if people could just learn to keep calm, let go of other’s stupid driving mistakes (as long as they didn’t directly cause an accident or injury), and realize that they’re not the only ones on the roads who want to make it home as quickly as possible—half of all car collision injuries and deaths could be avoided.

Make sure your family and friends are aware about the truths of road rage. Share this page with them on Facebook or tell them to contact us directly for a free consultation to discuss any potential questions or legal concerns they may have about their aggressive driving or recent accident. We are here to help!